United Hardware retailers meet in Minneapolis

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Attendees of the United Hardware January Buying Event at the Minneapolis Convention Center saw thousands of products, including an expanded "Gear Up, Get Outdoors."

The front-and-center sporting goods and outdoors-related area "continues to be popular with United Hardware retailers seeking to carve out their niches in their local markets," according to the company.

The Plymouth, Minn.-based co-op, with 1,200 dealers in 18 states and retail identities, including "Hardware Hank," also pointed to the success of the Store of Opportunity area. This area is described as a collection of products discounted by at least 30%, and one of the most popular areas of the show.

"The Store of Opportunity is a big way that we work with retailers to help them invest in their stores and focus on growth," said Steve Draeger, president and CEO of United Hardware.

The event also provided seminars on the new, internal United Hardware website. "We're very excited about the new website," said Draeger. "Our retailers are very excited about the new features, and we think it's a big step that will pay dividends in the future."

United Hardware's June Buying Market is slated for June 13-15, also in Minneapolis.